TWO Keighley schools have joined the Northern Star Academies Trust.

Parkwood and Victoria are among six primary schools in the Bradford district to become part of the organisation.

The others include Denholme.

All were formerly members of Nurture Academies Trust.

Northern Star now has 15 schools, together educating around 7,000 pupils, in North and West Yorkshire.

Its chief executive officer, Jenn Plews, says: "We are absolutely delighted to welcome these six primary schools to our trust partnership.

"Together we will build upon the strong foundations of the schools by sharing best practice, fostering collaboration and innovation amongst our staff and creating exciting and enriching learning opportunities for our pupils.

"Our trust partnership now brings together 1,000 education professionals in North and West Yorkshire, giving us the opportunity to draw upon a diverse pool of knowledge and expertise that will allow us to consistently deliver the highest standards of education. By working together, we can achieve far more for young learners in our region.

"The newest schools to join our family will be supported to develop ambitious plans in line with our promise to deliver an excellent education to nurture, sustain, aspire and thrive. Parents, carers and pupils can also look forward to an increasing focus on environmental sustainability, with our forward-facing 'green curriculum promise' which places the environment and stewardship of our planet at the forefront of school life."